Packing Your Birth Bag

Packing Your Birth Bag (Without the Extra Clutter!) Getting ready for birth? Packing doesn’t have to be stressful! Think of it like packing for a short overnight stay—just the essentials to keep you comfortable and prepared.

What to Wear During Labor

Hospitals provide gowns. However, you may prefer something a bit softer and less hospital-looking. You can also wear

• A stretchy jersey knit dress
• A comfy T-shirt with loose pants or a tank top
• A labor gown designed for IV access (available online). Look for one with snaps on the shoulders and down the back.

If you’re having a home birth or using a birth center, everything above applies. You may take walks outside, so pack an extra layer.

Tip: There are lots of fluids involved in birth. Consider bringing an extra set of whatever you choose to wear.

Post-Birth Comfort

• Nursing-friendly nightgowns make feeding easier while helping you feel like yourself.
• Bring a stretchy going-home outfit for yourself. Keep in mind your body will have changed, but expect to still be wearing maternity clothes.
• Hospitals provide essentials like disposable underwear, pads, and peri bottles—so there is no need to bring those. Birth Centers also typically provide these essentials. And for home birth, the birth supply kit your midwife provided likely includes these.

Bring Food

• Hospitals are not food deserts. However, they are not known for their culinary achievements. Pack a bag of snacks you and your partner enjoy. Bring a mix of high protein that is easy to digest. You'll want these both during labor and at night while feeding your baby (breastfeeding can make you extra hungry!).

Pack your hospital bag in advance with all non-perishable items.

• Put a note on top of the hospital bag to remind yourself to pack the phone chargers and any perishable foods.
• A soft-sided cooler is an excellent idea. Hospitals and birth centers have fridges, and you can add ice as needed.

Birth Bag Packing List

• Phone chargers
• Toiletries (think overnight trip)
• Glasses/contact solution
• Pajamas or an outfit for after birth (breastfeeding-friendly if needed)
• Stretchy going-home outfit (maternity leggings, nursing bra, etc.)
• Nursing Bra
• Socks and slippers
• Chapstick & lotion (hospitals can be dry!)
• Hair ties
• Car seat (no need to bring it in when you arrive)
• Going home outfit for baby
• Blanket and hat for baby (car seat-friendly blanket)
• Birth Support Person: Comfortable clothing. Pack like you're going away overnight.
• A water bottle for both of you

Optional

• Essential oils or LED candles
• Battery-operated fairy lights
• Pillow / favorite washable lap blanket
• Robe
• Sports bra or bikini top for laboring in the tub
• Hand-held or stroller fan

For Labor & Entertainment

• Prepared playlist, small speaker, earbuds/ headphones
• For inductions: a book, card games, hand-held gaming device, computer, or a tablet to watch movies.

Hospitals and birth centers provide a lot of essentials, so no need to overpack. Focus on comfort, convenience, and a few personal touches to make the experience as smooth as possible.